Inspired by the City of Lights

The holidays are the best time to go all-out with glitters, sparkles and anything that shimmers. And it looks like Laura Mercier got the memo with the release of their Holiday 2018 Collection. Inspired by the City of Lights, the products that comprise the line evoke the desire for "illuminating moments" and "intimate reflections."

Put it on and don’t think about it

More often than not, “hectic” and “holidays” are synonymous. It’s the busiest season of the year, with parties and gatherings lined up here and there. On top of the many errands on your list, you have to make sure you look your best through it all. Put your party face on, and make sure it stays on during and even well after the merriment. Here are some steps you can take to keep your face looking fresh all night long without needing a touch-up.

Prep your skin

It’s an often overlooked step, but preparation really is key. Before you even start painting your face, make sure your canvas is ready. For a seamless application of colour products, an exfoliated and moisturised face is necessary. So go ahead and use your favourite exfoliant to lift off dead skin cells and moisturise after to ensure that you have a soft, smooth base.

Pick the right base

It’s all about using the right products. You’d want something that lasts as long as you need it to and doesn’t budge without you wanting it to. Perfect the foundation of your makeup (pun intended), before anything else. For that, the Esteé Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation is your best bet. It’s a matte foundation that gives 10CM high coverage for a naturally flawless look. It also comes in 40 diverse shades, so you won’t have a hard time looking for the perfect hue for your skin tone.

Plus, it’s water- and sweat-proof, so you can dance the night away without having to worry about it wearing off while you’re enjoying. It’s also oil-free and has oil-controlling properties so you won’t need to worry about blotting either. And it’s long-lasting — really, with up to 24 hours of staying power. So you can put it on and just leave it be all through the evening.

Apply other products using light layers

After you’ve aced your base, make sure that you don’t just pile products on hoping they would stay flawlessly. The secret is to layer your products lightly. Build them up so they stay on properly instead of putting them heavily, which will actually leave your made-up face looking cakey and flakey. Start off with a cream product before sealing it in with a powder. You can also do this for lip products. Put on a light layer of lipstick or lip liner before adding another layer of lipstick or gloss.

Avoid touching your face, seriously

It can be due to a force of habit but avoid touching your face after your makeup is set. We’re sure it’s done without an intention to swipe colour from your face but doing so, even absent- mindedly, can actually contribute to the fruit of your hard work saying goodbye easily.

#ClozetteCovets

We may be in the midst of the last month of the year, but that doesn't mean beauty and fashion shopping would be put to a halt! This season is ripe with options for style and beauty, but we have to play favourites. Check out which picks we might just take with us through 2019!

Becks

Editor

Sunplay Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Mist SPF 50 PA++++, SGD19.90/~USD20

"This UV mist from Sunplay Skin Aqua for face and body is not just another spritz of sun protection. It's also lavender-tinted, which helps to correct and even out the skin tone while on the go — how cool is that for an au naturel day out?"

Jordianne

Sub-Editor

Furla Mimi bag, price unavailable

"The holidays are all about dressing to the nines and going above and beyond the usual. While I'm usually one to keep things minimal, I'm taking the season as an excuse to add a bit more glam to my holiday party ensembles. My weapon of choice: the Furla Mimi bag. I mean, it's in a seductive shade of red you can't really say no to. Plus, the size is just perfect for nights out and soirees."

Amanda

Community and Campaigns Executive

Bata Christmas Capsule Collection in Gold Shely, SGD59.95/~USD44

"I'm very particular about my choice of footwear. Usually, I go for very neutral colours to make sure they match everything in my wardrobe effortlessly. But hey, 'tis the season to have more fun, right? So this season, I'm thinking of swapping my black and nude heels with something a little bolder like this Gold Shely Peep Toe Shoes from Bata's Christmas Capsule Collection. Talk about adding some glitter and shine to my holiday wardrobe, right?"

Therese

Features Writer and Community Specialist

Maison Christian Dior JASMIN DES ANGES, price unavailable

"It's said that the holiday season is the busiest and most stressful time of the year. Well, in that case, I'm determined to remain chill and just enjoy the festivities without getting caught up in the rush. I find that one of the best ways to keep myself calm is by wearing a perfume I love. I've always been a fan of fresh, floral scents and I'm told that Maison Christian Dior's JASMIN DES ANGES is one of the best in the market right now. So naturally, I'm inclined to give it a try. It also doesn't hurt that the perfume comes in a pretty, minimalist packaging."

Nicole

Features Writer and Community Executive

Fenty Fairy Bomb Shimmer Powder, SGD40/~USD29

"Bless up, girls; Ms. Fenty has done it again. This time she's got some sparkle up her sleeve to make sure your best self shines brightest. The Fenty Fairy Bomb Shimmer Powder comes in three shades: Rosé on Ice, 24Kray, and Coppa Chill, formulated to suit all skin tones. These highlighting powders are superfine and can be used from head to toe."

Sabrina

Community Executive

Swatch SHINEBRIGHT , price unavailable

"Jump into the holiday spirit with this holly jolly Season’s Special, SHINEBRIGHT, from SWATCH. This timepiece is not only dressed in all red, but it also twinkles with Swarovski crystals on its fabric strap. P.S. It is also a limited and numbered edition of only 5,005 pieces."